Baptism

Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit, and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission…(Catechism of the Catholic Church n. 1213)

Sacrament of BaptismWe are very happy to welcome you for the baptism of your child. This is an important event for your family and for the parish community which celebrates the Sacrament of Baptism in the name of the Church. Through baptism yourchild will be given a share in the life of God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit and become a member of the Church.

If you are not a parishioner of St James The Great or St Joan of Arc we stronglyrecommend that you consider having your child baptized in your parish as this is an important step for you as a family to join in your local parish life. If you are unable to arrange for the baptism in your local parish you will need to provide us with a letter of permission from your local parish priest. Please note that all ceremonies take place at St Joan of Arc Church.

PresentationAt the presentation Mass your child will be welcomed into the parish community. You will be presented with a candle and white stole to be used at the baptism. The presentation Masses are at 11am at St Joan of Arc Church on the nominated Sundays.

PreparationIf this is your first child to be baptized you will need to attend a preparation session prior to the baptism. The baptism preparation session will take place at noon in the St Joan of Arc presbytery on one of the specified dates.

Godparents/SponsorsGodparents are required to be over the age of 16 and to be baptized believing Christians. The Catholic Church asks that at least one of the Godparents be Catholic. This is necessary as Godparents will make important promises, together with the parents, on behalf of the child. It is not appropriate to have as a Godparent someone who feels unable to say the Christian Creed with the family.

Baptism OfferingIt is customary to make an offering for the support of the parish and clergy. The $110 offering will also cover the cost of the white stole and baptism candle. Please make your payment at the time of booking.

SYMBOLS OF BAPTISMWaterWater is the primary symbol of baptism. We are reminded of the life-giving benefits of water. Through baptism we are cleansed and given new life with Christ.

Lighted CandleThe baptism candle is lit from the Easter paschal candle, a sign of the risen Christ– Light of the World. One of the Godparents will light the candle to symbolize the passing on of the light of faith. The parents & Godparents will help to keep the faith alive in the child’s heart.

AnointingThe original meaning of the word “Christ” is anointed one. Before baptism your child will be anointed on the chest with the oil of catechumens to protect & strengthen. During baptism the child is anointed on the head with the oil of chrism which symbolizes our union with Christ.

White GarmentThe baptismal garment is an expression of our new life with Christ. It is an outward sign of our Christian identity as Christ wore a white garment at the Transfiguration.